LOS ANGELES (Feb. 12, 2026) – Elementary and middle school students from across Region East showcased their literacy skills and confidence during the region’s 3rd Annual Spelling Bee, held this evening at James A. Garfield High School. The event brought together 41 students, each representing their school, for an exciting and friendly competition.
After several competitive rounds, Joseph Wu, a 6th grader from Eagle Rock Elementary and Magnet Center, earned first place by correctly spelling the winning word, interpolate. Joseph will advance to represent Region East at the L.A. County Spelling Bee on March 18, in Alhambra, CA.
Maddison Sangalang, a 7th grade student from Virgil Middle School, earned second place, followed by Wiley Morrison, a 5th-grade student from Mount Washington Elementary, who placed third.
Spelling Bee scholars were surrounded by family, friends, teachers and principals for the event. Board Member Karla Griego and Region East Superintendent Dr. Lourdes Ramirez Ortiz also joined in the celebration.
Los Angeles Unified’s regional spelling bee competition is organized across four regions: East, North, West, and South. The competition follows school-wide, classroom, and grade level spelling bees held between December and January. The initiative reflects the District’s commitment to strengthening foundational literacy skills while providing engaging academic experiences for meaningful opportunities for students.